Proactiv
Proactiv Solution is an over-the-counter topical treatment for mild to moderate forms of acne, widely know for being marketed in Guthy-Renker infomercials. Like many acne treatments, the active ingredient is benzoyl peroxide, along with other ingredients such as moisturizers and exfoliants.
Indications and possible side effects
According to the company's website, Proactiv Solution was created to treat mild to moderate cases of acne. Like most antibacterials for treating acne, Proactiv Solution uses benzoyl peroxide as one of the main active ingredients. Benzoyl peroxide may cause dryness and peeling of the skin. Approximately 5 percent of the population[1] is allergic to benzoyl peroxide and may experience reactions such as redness, itching, hives, swelling and a burning sensation after topical application. Benzoyl peroxide may also cause increased sensitivity to sunlight and induce collar-specific discoloration of clothes. For those who may be sensitive to benzoyl peroxide, Proactiv Solution has marketed the Gentle Formula kit, containing salicylic acid instead of benzoyl peroxide. The Gentle kit is for those who are allergic to benzoyl peroxide or for anyone who cannot use benzoyl peroxide or for those with very sensitive skin, although it is unclear whether or not salicylic acid can also cause these side effects.
Celebrity spokespeople
Guthy-Renker's marketing campaigns make heavy use of celebrity spokespeople (among others Jennifer Love Hewitt), recounting their "true-life" stories of using the product. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission mandates that celebrities must use the products they endorse.
Advertisements run in Australia for Proactiv contain the disclaimer "Results not typical".